Infrastructure health, safety, and reliability in Bowness and Montgomery
Overview
In response to recent disruptions and aging infrastructure challenges in Bowness and Montgomery, Councillors Sonya Sharp and Terry Wong proposed the "Infrastructure Health, Safety, and Reliability - Bowness & Montgomery" Notice of Motion on November 7, 2024, to the Executive Committee of Council, where it passed 7-3.
However, the motion was then reviewed by Council on November 29, 2024, where it failed in an 11-3 vote. As a result, no further action will be taken regarding this proposed assessment or the temporary pause on high-density residential developments.
Why this motion mattered
Both neighbourhoods, developed as independent municipalities before joining Calgary, have been experiencing strain due to aging infrastructure and increased density. Issues like recent water main breaks, prolonged boil water advisories, and road closures highlighted the need for a proactive approach to ensure safety, stability, and long-term planning.
Uncovering the history of Calgary’s water infrastructure crisis
Proposed actions
Had the motion passed, the following actions would have been taken:
Comprehensive infrastructure assessment: Administration would have conducted a detailed report on critical infrastructure within Bowness and Montgomery, examining roads, water and wastewater systems, storm sewers, parks, and green spaces.
Evaluating density impact: The report would have assessed the effects of increased density on aging infrastructure, identifying social, economic, and budgetary impacts.
Regular updates & reporting: Administration would have provided updates to the Infrastructure and Planning Committee, with a full report expected by June 2025.
Temporary pause on new high-density development permits: Residential development applications submitted after August 26, 2024, that exceeded four units and four secondary suites would have been temporarily paused.
Since the motion was not approved, these measures will not be implemented.
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Find out more about Councillor Sharp's previous votes and motions on topics like budget, infrastructure, transit, and more.